I don't disagree. And nor do I think Connor is good enough for a top 6 team, never had. He was played in quite a unique role for us, which completely played to this strengths. At Chelsea there are 'specialist' that are better at the different facets of the game.

I think its clear from the outside that they aren't happy with the midfield, and haven't been for a while. RLC's desire to stay, and stay, and stay is an indication of his personality.

My point with Connor is that he's only had half a season, and half a season in which he has played. He has every right to be a confident lad, and has consistently stepped up over the last couple of years. Wanting to make it, is obviously very different from making it.

I cant see him wanting to give up the fight the moment they sign another midfielder. Give it another 6 months, maybe another year and that might change.

Not playing for them tonight with despite Kante, Jorginho and Mount all out. Another two players already injured in the game and the 20yr that they bought from Villa just come on ahead of him...and the rumours showing they're about to spend 100m on another player in his position. He needs to leave the club for his own career whether that's to us or not who knows.

Finally brought him on when they were chasing the game this eve. Him and they young LB made Chelsea look much better, bundles of enthusiasm and energy. Just what we need.

Chelsea made some horrific signings this summer, 50m Cucurella, 35m Kouliabaly, 15m Aubamayang - all completely ineffective. Plus Fofana 80m and Sterling 50m both consistently injured. Makes me feel better about some of our past duds.

Conor was chasing shadows all day today - he will fit in nicely at moment to Selhurst

Forever Palace Proud

For his own future career prospects you would think he must be starting to rethink whether it’s worth staying at Chelsea. But even if he became available, would we be able to afford him and despite last season would he be prepared to choose Selhurst over the likes of Villa or Newcastle if they came calling? Then there is the question of can you fit him and Eze into the side with both looking to fill the ‘number10’ spot. Last year Eze was recovering from injury and used sparingly, often out wide, so was less of an issue to give them both playing time.

Am starting to think Conor coming back is unlikely, which is a shame

It feels like it's time to put Conor Gallagher behind us. It's like we're a lovestruck teenager still chasing their first girlfriend, even though they got dumped ages ago.

We need midfielders this window. At least 2. They can be next years back ups if we can get someone better in the summer. Because Doucoure is the only good midfielder we have and Hughes is a decent squad player. The rest are not/will not be fit for purpose next year.

Gallagher will be at Chelsea until the summer and I suspect beyond. He is getting as much game time as he can expect at Chelsea and we can't wait. Move on to realistic targets and if he goes elsewhere in the summer so be it.